By Mzukona Mantshontsho
Bullying in our communities and schools is a problem that is not receiving the attention it deserves. Schools are a microcosm for society. Power imbalances of this kind flourish in societal systems that favour the strong over the less popular and the advantaged over the disadvantaged.
Bullying in schools continues to happen because of this, where the bullies have a field day over the more introverted, less high-profile learners that are guilty of nothing but being their unassuming selves.
Teachers have a challenging time diagnosing the underlying issues behind bullying in schools because the perpetrators are often popular and master manipulators. Victims on the other hand, are normally passive and insecure with few friends or supporters.
Learners, teachers, parents and the community at large should stand up and fight against bullying so that we have safer schools and learners are able to learn in a conducive environment
I spoke to 7 year-old Obilelerona Waka Monkoe’s Mother Coach Tshidi Monkoe from Soshanguve in the Capital City Pretoria, on his recent book “My Kind friend becomes a Bully”, and how the book came about.
What is at the centre of My Kind Friend Becomes a Bully?
At the centre of the book is kindness, friendship, emotions and courage. The story helps children understand that sometimes people we trust can hurt us, and that it is important to speak up and ask for help. Waka wanted to create a story that children can relate to and learn from in a gentle and age-appropriate way.
How did his upbringing lead to his journey as a writer today?
Waka has always loved storytelling, drawing, learning and expressing his thoughts creatively. From a young age, he enjoyed creating stories and asking questions about life and people. His home environment encouraged learning, imagination and self-expression, which helped him develop confidence in sharing his ideas through writing.
What are your views in terms of reading and writing among 7-year-olds in South Africa?
Reading and writing are very important because they help children grow in confidence, communication and imagination. Many children have beautiful ideas and stories inside them, but sometimes they need encouragement and support to express themselves. We believe more children should be inspired to read, write and believe that their voices matter.
Tell us about his early life
Obilelerona Waka Monkoe is a seven-year-old learner who enjoys storytelling, drawing and learning new things. He is curious, creative and passionate about expressing himself through stories that children can understand and connect with.
What can we expect from him going forward since he started writing?
Waka hopes to continue writing more children’s stories in the future. He would like to create books that teach lessons, encourage kindness and help children talk about their feelings and experiences.
How do you hope the book will directly contribute to other children and young people?
We hope the book encourages children to speak up when they are hurt, confused or bullied. We also hope it helps children understand empathy, kindness and healthy friendships. Most importantly, we hope young people realise that their voices, feelings and stories matter.
What have been the highs and lows of writing this book?
One of the highlights has been seeing people support and encourage Waka’s work at such a young age. It has also been exciting watching the story come to life through illustrations and book design. One of the challenges was learning the publishing process and balancing everything involved in creating a children’s book.
When he is not writing, what does he get up to, and where can people follow you online to join and buy ‘My Kind Friend Becomes a Bully’?
When he is not writing, Waka enjoys drawing, playing, learning and spending time with family. Updates about the book, pre-orders and upcoming projects will be shared through my social media platforms and promotional pages.
